Eight Ways to Manage Change
Change is inevitable. Now, more than ever is time to imagine what your operation will look like post-pandemic. Return to the pre-pandemic normalcy is not an option. As stated by the McKinsey organization (June 8, 2020) “The pandemic has forced the adoption of a new way of working”. Most likely, a hybrid setup, combining working remotely and at the workplace will be the new normal. The Gensler workplace survey 2020 identified 5 trends to consider: mobility, choice, privacy, unassigned seating, and health and well-being. Here are 8 summarized tips from the Lindenberger Group to manage change in the workplace:
- Have a Plan
Spell out objectives, a mission, and how these things are about to change
- Set the Goal
Leaders should be able to articulate why the company needs to change and where it needs to be
- Define the Change
Due to the iterative nature of change, it may be necessary to not just define the change at the outset, but redefine the change at various steps along the way.
- Celebrate the Old
All too often, old policies, programs, strategies, and work are dismissed out of hand as a new direction unfolds.
- Articulate Challenges
Discuss the potential challenges, the range of those challenges, and what the company is doing or will do to address them
- Listen Carefully
It is important to express that the employee concerns have been heard and will be addressed at a later date
- Find Key Influencers
Every organization has key players who have earned the respect of their coworkers, have longevity (and therefore perspective), and are influential
- Adjust or Set New Performance Objectives
Employees in a time of uncertainty will want to know how the changes will affect the way they are evaluated
Sources: www.mckinsey.com, www.gensler.com, https://lindenbergergroup.com/8-ways-manage-change-workplace-effectively/